U.S. Dairy Treats Members of Congress at White House Congressional Picnic

U.S. Dairy Treats Members of Congress at White House Congressional Picnic

WASHINGTON, May 21, 2026-Members of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) donated more than 2,700 ice cream novelties and handheld frozen treats for this year's White House Congressional Picnic, sharing a timeless American favorite with Members of Congress, administration officials and their families gathered on the White House South Lawn.

"Ice cream is one of America's most cherished traditions, bringing families, friends, and communities together across generations," said Michael Dykes, president and CEO of IDFA. "We are proud to support this year's White House Congressional Picnic and celebrate the people who dedicate themselves to serving our nation. These treats were made in America using milk produced by hardworking U.S. dairy farmers, reflecting the pride, innovation and dedication of our dairy industry."

This marks IDFA's second White House ice cream event in the past year, following the White House Summer Soirée in 2025, further highlighting the strong connection between America's dairy industry and iconic national traditions that bring people together.

The White House Congressional Picnic is a longstanding bipartisan tradition that celebrates public service and brings together lawmakers, staff, administration officials and their families for an evening of fellowship and community.

America's ice cream industry continues to be an important economic and cultural force, supporting 27,000 jobs, generating $1.9 billion in direct wages and contributing $11.6 billion in economic impact nationwide. Many U.S. ice cream and frozen dessert makers have been serving consumers for more than 50 years, with numerous companies remaining family-owned across multiple generations. With 97% of Americans enjoying ice cream, the category remains one of the country's most beloved foods and a symbol of celebration, connection and simple everyday joy.

"IDFA appreciates the opportunity to once again participate in a White House celebration," Dykes added. "Events like these highlight the unique ability of dairy foods to create moments of connection and celebration while honoring the Americans who work every day in service to our country and our communities."

A photo from the event can be downloaded here.

For more information about the ice cream industry, including fun facts, trends, and historical information, visit IDFA Ice Cream Resources at https://www.idfa.org/safeicecream.

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Contact: [email protected]

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation's dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3 million jobs that generate $198 billion in wages and $779 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA's diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent most of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.